36470, Perdue Hill, Alabama COPD Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the COPD Score in 36470, Perdue Hill, Alabama is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## COPD Care in the Heart of Alabama: A Hospital Review Near ZIP Code 36470

The zip code 36470 encompasses the town of Monroeville, Alabama, a community steeped in literary history and, like many rural areas, faces unique healthcare challenges. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a significant health concern nationwide, and access to quality respiratory care is paramount. This review examines hospitals near Monroeville, focusing on their capabilities in treating COPD, considering factors like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth offerings.

**Understanding the Landscape**

Monroeville sits in Monroe County, a relatively small county in southwest Alabama. Residents often travel for specialized care, and the hospitals in surrounding counties become crucial. The nearest major cities offering more comprehensive medical services are Mobile, approximately 90 miles south, and Montgomery, about 120 miles northeast. This review will focus on hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, considering their relevance to the population of 36470.

**D.W. McMillan Memorial Hospital (Brewton, AL): A Local Hub**

D.W. McMillan Memorial Hospital in Brewton, AL, a town about 30 miles south of Monroeville, serves as a key healthcare provider for the surrounding area. While it is a smaller community hospital, it plays a vital role in providing basic medical services. Unfortunately, publicly available data on its COPD-specific programs and specialized respiratory care is limited. D.W. McMillan does not currently have a CMS star rating. Emergency room wait times are generally shorter compared to larger facilities, but specific data fluctuates. Telehealth options might be available, but details on respiratory-specific services are not readily accessible. Patients with complex COPD cases may need to seek care at larger facilities.

**Atmore Community Hospital (Atmore, AL): Serving a Rural Population**

Atmore Community Hospital, located approximately 30 miles south of Monroeville, is another community hospital that serves a primarily rural population. Similar to D.W. McMillan, detailed information about specialized COPD programs is not readily available. It also lacks a CMS star rating. ER wait times are typically moderate, but again, fluctuate depending on the time of day and patient volume. Telehealth services may be offered, but specific details on respiratory care are not easily accessible. Patients with advanced COPD may need to consider seeking care at larger hospitals.

**Mobile Hospitals: Offering Comprehensive Care**

Mobile, Alabama, offers a more robust healthcare infrastructure. Several hospitals in Mobile are crucial for residents of 36470 needing specialized COPD care.

**University Hospital (Mobile, AL): A Teaching Hospital with a Focus on Research**

University Hospital, part of the University of South Alabama Health System, is a major teaching hospital in Mobile. It is a Level I Trauma Center and offers a broad range of medical services. University Hospital has a CMS star rating, which can be found on the CMS website. This hospital is likely to have a pulmonology department and offer specialized COPD treatment programs, including pulmonary rehabilitation. Emergency room wait times can vary, but the hospital's website and online resources often provide real-time updates. University Hospital is actively involved in medical research, and this can translate to access to innovative treatments. Telehealth services are available, and they may include respiratory care consultations and monitoring.

**USA Health Children's & Women's Hospital (Mobile, AL): Specialized Pediatric and Women's Care**

While USA Health Children's & Women's Hospital focuses on pediatric and women's health, it is important to note that children with respiratory conditions may require specialized care. This hospital may have pediatric pulmonologists and offer treatment for respiratory illnesses in children. Information on CMS star ratings and ER wait times should be available on their website. Telehealth services are likely available for pediatric consultations.

**Providence Hospital (Mobile, AL): A Catholic Healthcare Provider**

Providence Hospital, a part of Ascension Health, is another major hospital in Mobile. This hospital has a CMS star rating. Providence Hospital is likely to have a pulmonology department and offer comprehensive COPD care. Emergency room wait times can be found on their website or through online resources. Telehealth services are likely available, potentially including respiratory care consultations and follow-up appointments.

**Springhill Medical Center (Mobile, AL): A Comprehensive Medical Center**

Springhill Medical Center, a large hospital in Mobile, is another option for specialized COPD care. Springhill Medical Center has a CMS star rating. This hospital likely has a pulmonology department and offers a range of COPD treatment options, including pulmonary rehabilitation. Emergency room wait times are typically available online. Telehealth services are likely available, potentially including respiratory care consultations and monitoring.

**Baptist Medical Center South (Montgomery, AL): A Regional Option**

While located further away, Baptist Medical Center South in Montgomery, Alabama, is a significant healthcare provider that may be a viable option for some residents of 36470. Baptist Medical Center South has a CMS star rating. This hospital likely has a pulmonology department and offers comprehensive COPD care. Emergency room wait times can be found on their website or through online resources. Telehealth services are likely available, potentially including respiratory care consultations and follow-up appointments.

**Key Considerations for COPD Patients**

When choosing a hospital for COPD care, patients and their families should consider several factors:

* **Pulmonology Expertise:** Does the hospital have a dedicated pulmonology department with board-certified specialists?
* **Pulmonary Rehabilitation:** Does the hospital offer pulmonary rehabilitation programs, which are crucial for improving lung function and quality of life?
* **Emergency Room Availability:** What are the average ER wait times, and how accessible is emergency care in case of a COPD exacerbation?
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Does the hospital offer telehealth services for respiratory care consultations, monitoring, and follow-up appointments?
* **Hospital Ratings:** Review CMS star ratings and other quality metrics to assess the hospital's overall performance.
* **Access to Specialized Services:** Does the hospital offer access to specialized services like advanced diagnostic testing, lung transplant programs (if needed), and respiratory therapy?

**Telehealth: Bridging the Distance**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in rural healthcare. Hospitals near 36470 should ideally offer telehealth options for COPD patients. These services can include virtual consultations with pulmonologists, remote monitoring of vital signs, and educational programs. Telehealth can help reduce the need for frequent trips to the hospital, especially for patients with mobility limitations or transportation challenges.

**The Importance of Pulmonary Rehabilitation**

Pulmonary rehabilitation is a critical component of COPD management. It involves a structured program of exercise, education, and support designed to improve lung function, reduce symptoms, and enhance quality of life. Patients should inquire about pulmonary rehabilitation programs at any hospital they are considering.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

Residents of Monroeville (36470) and the surrounding areas have several options for COPD care. While local community hospitals provide essential services, patients with complex COPD cases may need to seek care at larger hospitals in Mobile or Montgomery. When choosing a hospital, patients should carefully consider the factors outlined above, including pulmonology expertise, pulmonary rehabilitation programs, ER wait times, telehealth capabilities, and overall hospital ratings. Proactive communication with healthcare providers and a willingness to travel for specialized care are crucial for managing COPD effectively in this rural setting. The availability of telehealth services can significantly improve access to care and support for COPD patients in the region.